The dim glow of the phone screen cast long shadows across the room. A man, in his mid-forties, lay on the bed, fingers poised above the screen as he scrolled through social media. The clock on the wall ticked rhythmically. The door opened and his wife walked into the room, lost in her own phone. He looked up at her.

“Hey. Kitchen is all cleaned up. Want to do anything tonight?” he said.

“Hmmm?” she replied, her eyes still fixed on her phone. He cleared his throat and she broke her gaze to look at him.

“I asked if you would like to do anything tonight?” She cast him an almost indignant look.

“Whatever,” she said with a shrug. She turned her focus back to her phone, texting God knows who about God knows what as she walked into the bathroom and shut the door. He took a deep breath, his mind swirling with thoughts of his stagnant marriage and the yearning for something more. They had grown apart over time. They were, at best, friends and co-parents. Other times they couldn’t see eye-to-eye about much. But they had kids, and that was always at the forefront of his mind. He heard the shower turn on in the bathroom and sighed.

He turned back to his own phone and began to type, his words forming a bridge between his current reality and the connection he so desperately sought.

Yearning for connection is a profound aspect of our humanity. Sometimes, the bonds we have in our closest relationships don’t quite fulfill our emotional needs, leaving us searching for that elusive sense of understanding and empathy. Seeking attention, even in a virtual space, is a way to bridge the gap between our inner world and the outside. It’s a quest for validation and resonance with someone who can share in our thoughts and feelings, even if only through words on a screen. This desire isn’t just about physical presence but about finding a momentary refuge in someone who sees us, truly listens, and makes us feel less alone in our journey.

He paused, considering his next words carefully. He didn’t want to mislead anyone; honesty was paramount. This wouldn’t be his first affair. Perhaps it could be his last if he found the right one? He began typing, the soft clicking of the phone’s keys competing with the ticking of the clock.

I’m a 44-year-old man from the Norfolk area in Virginia. My marriage, while steady, has lost the spark and intimacy that once defined it. I’m not looking to change anyone’s situation but to find that missing connection.

I believe that sharing common ground helps keep things in perspective. I enjoy the beach, water parks, kayaking, reading, writing, and watching movies. I’m also a foodie who loves good wine and beer. Idle days spent with someone important, even virtually, mean a lot to me.

I’m drawn to sarcasm and humor—I find wit and intelligence incredibly attractive. I value open and honest communication. Consistent messaging is key for me, and I believe it’s essential for keeping the connection alive, especially when meeting in person isn’t always an option.

Physically, I take care of myself, go to the gym, and appreciate when a partner does the same. Confidence in how you look is incredibly sexy to me. Someone who is laid back but knows how to look nice for a man who showers her with affection.

If you’re looking for someone who is attentive, caring, and can make you smile, I’d love to be that person for you. Let’s enjoy the fun and fantasy of this connection, and who knows where it might lead.

Satisfied, he reviewed his words one last time before hitting “Post.” He leaned back, the weight of anticipation pressing down on him. What kind of responses would he receive? Would he even receive any responses? Would there be anyone out there who understood his needs and matched his desires?

Meanwhile, across town, a woman scrolled through the subreddit. She paused, biting her lip as she read his post. He sounded intriguing, but then again, all the men on Reddit said this kind of stuff. Was he really any different?

She read through his ad once more. There was something unique about the way he expressed himself. It wasn’t just the usual, empty promises. There was depth, a genuine longing that mirrored her own. She glanced off in the direction of her husband’s home office. The door was closed, as always. She decided to take a chance, her fingers hovering over the keyboard as she crafted her reply.